Location: Newton County, MS | Metro: Scott County, MS HUD Metro FMR Area
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $830 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $980 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,170 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,485 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,663 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,796 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,886 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis for ZIP 39057 reveals a significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. The FMR for ZIP 39057, as defined by HUD for metro FY 2026, is set at $880. In contrast, the market rent, according to the Census ACS data, stands at $474. This results in a gap of $406, which represents approximately 86% of the market rent.
The FMR, being higher than the market rent, makes ZIP 39057 a favorable environment for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking to attract voucher tenants. These tenants can help fill vacancies with guaranteed payments from the government, effectively turning the property into a yield play. Given that only 10.6% of the population are renters, the potential for rental income is limited, but the presence of voucher tenants can stabilize occupancy rates.
The median home value in ZIP 39057 is $166,767, while the median household income is $62,349. With these figures, landlords can leverage the FMR to ensure a steady stream of income, even if the overall market rent is lower. The high FMR relative to the market rent means that voucher tenants can afford to pay closer to the FMR, thus providing a financial buffer against the lower market rates.
In summary, the disparity between the FMR and market rent in ZIP 39057 creates a unique opportunity for investors to capitalize on the government's willingness to pay higher rates through housing vouchers. This can be particularly beneficial in a low-renter environment where maintaining occupancy is crucial.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Demographics from U.S. Census (2024).
About FMR: Fair Market Rent (FMR) is used to determine payment standards for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, initial renewal rents for some expiring project-based Section 8 contracts, and rent ceilings for HOME Investment Partnerships.